Wayne E. Herndon Jr.

Wayne E. Herndon Jr., 81, of Pekin, IL passed away at 8:55 AM Sunday, October 18, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family.

Wayne was born on March 16, 1945 in Memphis, TN to Wayne E. and Helen (Loewenberg) Herndon Sr. He married Belinda Hoerr on April 23, 1977 in Petersburg, IL. She passed away on February 11, 2023.

Also preceding in death are one grandson, Brandon Herndon.

Surviving are: three sons, Patrick (Shanna) Herndon of Good Hope, IL, Steve (Pam) Herndon of Pekin, and Christopher (Jessica) Herndon of Forest City; two daughters, Jennifer (Bruce Kettwich) Herndon of Washington, IL and Marianne (Steve Brown) Herndon of Pekin; seven grandchildren; Autumn Herndon, Caitlin Herndon, Zoe Willis, Hailey Sutton, Hayden Sutton, Hadleigh Sutton, and Alice Herndon.

Wayne proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, demonstrating the values of duty, honor, and service that remained evident throughout his life. Following his military service, he pursued higher education and earned a Master's Degree from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, laying the foundation for a career dedicated to the stewardship and conservation of Illinois' natural resources.

Wayne devoted many years to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, where he worked as a respected Fisheries Biologist. His expertise, commitment, and passion for the outdoors helped preserve and enhance the state's fisheries for future generations. He was an active member of the American Fisheries Society, the Illinois Muskie Association, Canton VFW Post #1984, and Canton American Legion Post #16, organizations that reflected both his professional dedication and his enduring commitment to fellow veterans and outdoor enthusiasts.

A lifelong lover of nature, Wayne found his greatest enjoyment on the water, in the woods, and among family and friends. He was an avid fisherman, hunter, and boater whose appreciation for the outdoors was matched only by his curiosity and love of reading. He will be remembered for his knowledge, quiet dedication, adventurous spirit, and the lasting impact he made on both the natural world and the lives of those fortunate enough to know him.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 AM Saturday, October 24, 2026 at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM -6:00 PM Friday, October 23rd at the funeral home. Interment will be in Lakeview Cemetery with Military Honors provided by the United States Army and the Tazewell Area Ceremonial Team. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or The Nature Conservancy.